Changing Car Oil
Changing the oil in a car is an essential part of keeping a vehicle healthy and safe. Engine oil is the lubricant that keeps the numerous moving parts moving without friction.
You will know when you need to change the oil in your car as soon as the yellow oil service warning light on your dashboard comes on. As soon as this happens you should take your car to a garage. A change is recommended every 3000 or so miles, though if you use a synthetic variety, you may be able to go 10,000 miles before changing.
However, if you drive your car fast, or live in a hot, cold or dusty environment, you may need to change the oil in your car more often. If you have an older car you may need to have it changed more frequently too.
The changing process is not a complicated job. However, it can be very messy as it involves draining old oil from underneath the car whilst the new batch being poured in.
Filter Change
It is essential that your filter is also changed, as your engines performance depends greatly on the distribution of oil throughout the system.
The filter allows dirt and debris to be cleared out of the car engine, which is vital to keep it running. However, much like a hoover, the filter can become clogged up and the performance of the whole system is affected as a result.
The mechanic who is changing your oil will also clean the filter as this is part of the process.
Find out from the car owner’s manual which oil and filter is correct for your car.
Different Types of Motor Oil
Synthetic Motor Oil
This is the highest grade of oil as it is created by engineers, scientists and chemists who control the ingredients in a highly measured and calculated way. This oil will have the highest levels of lubrication and engine protection. This keeps your engine running smoothly and guards against heat build-up.
Synthetic Blend Motor Oils
This type of oil is a mixture between the conventional and the synthetic type which is described above. This type of oil is recommended for cars, vans, lorries and heavy loaded vehicles as it contains excellent low-temperature properties.
High-Mileage Motor Oil
If you have an older car this is the typically the type for your engine. Some high mileage, high performance cars are better served by synthetic oil. However, this blend of oil has a unique mixture of additives and viscosity which reduces burn off. It also helps to seal leaks and will also help improve the combustion chamber sealing which in turn improves engine compression.
Conventional Motor Oil
Conventional oil comes in many grades, based on viscosity (thickness and fluidity), with each grade being blended to suit a particular car, environment and driving style. Make sure that you use the right oil if you are replacing it yourself or if you’re getting it completed by a garage.
You should be able to find what type of oil that you need by looking in your car owner’s manual, this is important because if you put the wrong type or amount in your car you could face trouble!